Liverpool Library

About:

Liverpool Central Library is one of the city’s most impressive and beloved public buildings, blending historic grandeur with modern innovation to create a truly inspiring space for learning, discovery, and community engagement. Located on William Brown Street, adjacent to the Walker Art Gallery and St George’s Hall, the library is at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural quarter. Originally opened in 1860, the library underwent a major £50 million redevelopment and reopened in 2013, successfully preserving its historic elements while introducing a sleek, light-filled modern design.

One of the most striking features of Liverpool Central Library is the beautifully restored Hornby Library and Oak Room, adorned with ornate woodwork, marble pillars, and stained-glass windows. These spaces retain their Victorian charm and house some of the library’s rarest and most valuable books, including 15th-century manuscripts, early printed texts, and a rich archive of Liverpool’s local history. Perhaps the most iconic space, however, is the Picton Reading Room—a magnificent circular hall that evokes the feel of a classical temple of knowledge, with its domed ceiling, balcony shelving, and rows of wooden desks bathed in natural light. It is one of the oldest and most atmospheric reading rooms in the country.

In contrast to these historic areas, the new section of the library offers open, airy spaces, modern furnishings, and state-of-the-art digital resources. The atrium features a stunning central staircase spiralling beneath a vast glass roof, offering panoramic views across the city from the rooftop terrace. The library caters to all ages, with extensive children’s and young adult sections, multimedia zones, free public computers, and quiet study areas. It also runs regular workshops, exhibitions, book clubs, and community events, ensuring it remains a vibrant, living part of the city’s cultural life.

Liverpool Central Library is more than just a place to borrow books—it’s a sanctuary for study, a hub of heritage, and a welcoming public space open to all. Whether you’re researching your family tree, delving into rare archives, enjoying the architecture, or simply reading in peace, the library offers a deeply enriching experience in the heart of Liverpool.